Where We Left Off: New Directions didn't place at nationals, but returned to Ohio feeling proud of their accomplishments.

What's Next: Kurt tries to get boyfriend Blaine to transfer to McKinley High, while Mercedes finally gets a boyfriend of her own. Finchel and Zises-erman (what do you call the Lauren-Puck relationship?) are going strong. Idina Menzel returns for a sizable arc as Rachel's birth mom, who's also the newest teacher at McKinley.